Family 2023

RELATED

6

Lindo’s Group Pg 12

NorthStar Dementia Pg 5

ParentGuide Pg 5

Pure Water Pg 3 Security Associates Pg 11

ISLAND LIVING

Contact: Jennifer Ward

Tel: (441) 335-0071

Email: advertise@ipn.bm

Publisher: Jennifer Ward

Circulation: 1,000

Printed by: Bermuda Blueprinting

Managed and Designed by: Inspired Limited www.ipn.bm

10

HOME SECURITY - 8 Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

The security of one’s home is a top priority for every homeowner. While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of burglary, theft or other security threats, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate these risks and keep your home and family safe. Carlton Crockwell, Chief Executive Officer at Security Associates brings us eight tips for home security that every homeowner should know.

8

A GROWING FAMILY CONCERN Dementia Care in Bermuda

As the numbers of those living with dementia in Bermuda continue to rise placing greater demands on an already strained health care system, Marie Fay of NorthStar Dementia Ltd. strives to provide evidence based and client-centered consultation services to improve the safety, independence and quality of life of persons with dementia and their caregivers.

NUTRITION FOR OLDER ADULTS

Good nutrition is important at any age but as we get older there may be some nutrients that we need to focus on more than before. Keelin Hankin of Island Nutrition shares their advice, tips, and tricks for maintaining good nutrition as we age and what a healthy balanced diet is.

9

RELATIONSHIPS - Supporting Healthy Relationships with Your Little Ones

Early intervention can go a long way in preventing or supporting optimal development and mental health for our childres. Gwendolyn Creary from ParentGuide is here to support families struggling with difficult experiences and memories

Offering a Guiding Light to Bermudians

living with Dementia and their caregivers

As the numbers of those living with dementia in Bermuda continue to rise placing greater demands on an already strained health care system, NorthStar’s evidence based and clientcentered consultation services can improve the safety, independence and quality of life of persons with dementia and their caregivers.

NorthStar’s Mission is to empower people navigating dementia with the knowledge, skills and support they need to continue living life to the fullest, supported by family caregivers who can confidently care for their loved ones.

NorthStar Dementia Ltd. - Marie Fay, OTR, DRS Tel: (441)704-0387 | info@northstardementia.bm www.northstardementia.bm

A GROWING FAMILY CONCERN

Dementia Care in Bermuda

PRIMARY SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

• Memory loss

• Challenges with speech and communication

• Reduced attention and concentration

• Disorientation

• Visual perceptual difficulties (the way our brains perceive and interact with the world around us)

• Poor judgement and reasoning

• Changes to behaviour and personality

NorthStar Dementia Ltd. was launched in 2022 in response to a community need for Comprehensive Dementia Assessment, caregiver education and support services.

As the numbers of those living with dementia in Bermuda continue to rise placing greater demands on an already strained health care system, NorthStar’s evidence based and client-centered consultation services can improve the safety, independence and quality of life of persons with dementia and their caregivers. Our goal is to assist clients to successfully age in place at home with the support of

The term Dementia describes a group of symptoms that impact memory and other thinking skills. The symptoms of dementia are caused by a number of underlying disease processes, of which Alzheimer’s disease is the most common (~70% of cases).

Dementia is a progressive condition, which eventually limits a person’s ability to independently participate in daily activities.

Expert Advice from Marie Fay, OTR, DRS, Dementia Care Specialist and Founder of NorthStar Dementia

their family caregivers to reduce the overall cost and burden of care for this vulnerable population.

We know that receiving a diagnosis of dementia can be daunting. Whether you are noticing changes yourself, or are supporting someone who is, you likely have many questions. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to turn to for answers and help. NorthStar offers a guiding light to Bermudians navigating dementia, providing direction and support to ensure they find their True North. We want you to know you are not alone in this journey

• It is estimated that there are 3000 Bermudians currently living with a diagnosis of Dementia

• Seniors aged 65+ will account for 24.9% of Bermuda’s population by 2026

• 1 in 10 Seniors will be diagnosed with Dementia

• 80% of dementia care is undertaken by family members who report high levels of caregiver stress and burnout

• 75% of clients living with Dementia are uninsured or under insured, and unable to afford the out of pocket expense for essential dementia care and support services

Majority of NorthStar’s referrals are currently received from concerned family or community members. I often hear that the person they are trying to support is “not aware” of what is happening to them, “in denial” or “resistant” to receiving the necessary care and attention to keep them safe. Sometimes this can feel as if it is a direct and intentional act of defiance of manipulation. It is not uncommon for persons living with dementia to be reluctant to visit with their doctor, openly discuss changes to their memory, or participate in formal testing. There is many reasons for this. It may be because they are fearful of what is happening to them and are aware to some degree that something just “isn’t right”, they may not have the processing or reasoning skills to understand that they are experiencing brain changes, or they may even have a clinical lack of awareness or insight into current challenges (anosognosia) as a result of their condition. Despite these common challenges, early and accurate diagnosis opens the door to optimal care and treatment options. It helps people to plan ahead while they are still able to make important decisions regarding their care and support needs and on financial and legal matters. It also helps them and their supporting family members to receive practical information, advice and guidance as they face new challenges as the disease progresses.

Practical strategies to get your loved one the help they need:

1. Come from a place of care and concern – reassure the person that you love and care for them, and want them to stay as healthy and happy as possible for as long as possible. Sometimes it helps to place greater emphasis on yourself and your needs, for example, “I have concerns mom. I am worried about you. Checking things out with the doctor would make me feel so much better”

2. Repeat information as necessary – a common part of the condition is short term memory loss, which can become so significant that information can be forgotten in a matter of minutes. Expect to have to repeat information regularly over time.

3. Call the doctor’s office – phone ahead to make your observations and concerns known. While client confidentiality may prevent health providers from sharing information with you (without prior client consent), this may enable them to undertake a more thorough examination in office at their next scheduled visit.

4. Write things down to reinforce information –accommodate speech and language challenges by providing important information in a variety of ways (verbal, written, visual etc)

5. Ask your loved one for permission to accompany them to any medical appointments. Two sets of eyes and ears are better than one! Record any findings and recommendations in writing to help with processing of new information.

6. Focus on the benefits of early diagnosis – early and accurate diagnosis leads to better outcomes and quality of life over time.

7. Be patient – everyone processes information in their own time. We cannot force someone to receive care and support services if they are not ready to. Every phase in dementia is temporary. Even this one.

Most importantly, prioritise your own self-care needs. Caring for someone with dementia is a marathon not a sprint. If you are not feeling your best, this will take a toll on the quality of care you are able to provide others. Be sure to take care of your own physical and mental health needs first, and solicit professional support services where needed to avoid crisis situations and to ease the burden of care over time.

80% of dementia care is undertaken by family members who report high levels of caregiver stress and burnout.

NUTRITION FOR OLDER ADULTS

Expert Advice from Keelin Hankin, RD, Registered Dietitian at Island Nutrition

Good nutrition is important at any age but as we get older there may be some nutrients that we need to focus on more than before. We covered this topic to a wonderful audience at a recent Age Concern event and thought we would share our advice, tips, and tricks to the rest of Bermuda on maintaining good nutrition as we age. So, let’s recap on what a healthy balanced diet is!

Protein

Between the ages of 40-80 years old we lose around 30-50% of our muscle mass! Shocking, I know... but by ensuring an adequate daily protein intake you can build and/or maintain muscle mass, which can improve our mobility and balance. This will help to protect us more from those unexpected falls. We should be aiming to include protein in each meal. But what is a portion? A good way to remember this is the size of the palm of your hand for red meat (pork, beef, lamb) and the full size of your hand (or 4-6oz) for chicken, fish, and turkey. If you eat more

Improving Access to High Quality Nutritional Care

Registered Dietitians providing Medical Nutrition Therapy

We use a whole food approach and will never sell you any supplements or other products

All ages from infants to seniors

Paediatrics: including poor growth, feeding/weaning issues, behavioural issues, weight management, fatty liver, pre-diabetes, constipation, allergies, tube feeding, learning disabilities

Adults: including gastrointestinal, heart disease, high blood pressure kidney disease, inflamation, weight management, diabetes, bariatric surgery, underweight/wright loss, cancer, COPD, wound healing, maternal/women’s health and the elderly

1:1 Consults and Group Education available.

Email reception@islandnutrition.bm for appointments and ask your healthcare professional for a referral.

INSURANCE APPROVED WITH NO COPAYS

Appointments available in-office, telemedicine and home visits

4th Floor Dallas Building, 7 Victoria St. Tel: 295-4082 | Fax: 295-5245 | www.islandnutrition.bm

plant-based proteins like chickpeas and lentils, then aim for ½ cup per meal or one third of a tin.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are usually given a bad reputation, but they are essential in providing us with energy, however they are commonly overeaten. It is best to include wholegrains where possible like oats, quinoa and brown rice for extra fiber and aim for approximately ½ cup measure at each meal.

Fruits and Vegetables

It is always very cliché as a Dietitian to be encouraging people to include more fruits and vegetables in their diet. But the facts on their health properties speak for themselves. Evidence shows that eating at least “5 a day” (which means a combination of 5 different portions of fruits and vegetables daily) can help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce health complications. With island life becoming more expensive, focusing on seasonal, frozen, or tinned options can certainly work out cheaper. Just remember if buying tinned fruit to buy them in juice rather than in syrup.

Bone Health

After the age of 50, bone breakdown outpaces bone formation and can ultimately lead to the loss of bone density. Vitamin D and calcium are great at looking after our skeletons! We should be aiming for 2 sources of calcium rich foods per day like low fat milk or yoghurts and certain fish like sardines and pilchards. Supplementing Calcium would need to be discussed with your GP beforehand.

Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin” and has a very important role in helping increase the absorption of calcium. Supplementation is advised for those who spend a lot of time inside or covered up. The daily supplement dose we would aim for is 10micrograms per day. We can also get Vitamin D from some foods like oily fish, egg yolks and fortified breakfast cereals. Your GP will normally check your Vitamin D levels at your physical checkup.

Reduced Appetite

If we notice that we are becoming underweight with a reduced appetite, we can make some slight changes to our eating habits that can help to build us back up again. Adding extra oil or cheese to pasta dishes can increase the calorie content of the meal without increasing the portion size. Having some milky drinks in between meals to help provide us with extra protein and calories can also help to stimulate your appetite and promote some weight gain.

This article is mainly aimed at those with no pre-existing health conditions. If you have any questions about your nutritional health and feel you would benefit from support from a Registered Dietitian, please contact us at Island Nutrition on 295-4082 or at reception@islandnutrition.bm.

SUPPORTING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR LITTLE ONES!

During the first few years of her counselling career Gwendolyn worked abroad, providing services for adult patients who had chronic mental illnesses and developmental challenges. She was then recruited to work with clients at the opposite end of the mental health continuum in a fascinating new field, Infant Mental Health. When she returned to Bermuda infant mental health was an unfamiliar discipline and hence not a focus for early intervention. She continued her career providing 25 years of parent guidance and support within the government’s early intervention programme as the behavior management specialist. Gwendolyn taught discipline strategies to families with children from birth to 5 years and consulted with both parents and childcare providers. Since the developmental screening usually occurred at 24 – 36 months, most behavioral concerns were identified then, but a good portion could have been prevented with earlier screening and intervention. Early intervention can go a long way in preventing or supporting optimal development and mental health.

Research has validated that what happens in the first 1000 days of a baby’s life can determine their wellbeing into adulthood and over the lifespan. During the first 1000 days, from conception to age 2 years, brain development is rapid and foundational to the child’s understanding and making sense of the world around them. The quality of the relationships developed with parents, other caregivers, extended family, and community members helps to inform the little one’s sense of their place in their world.

Development is influenced by the young child’s family and community culture. Infants and young children learn to value themselves to the extent that they feel valued by those that care for them.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) impact one’s risk for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and some mental health challenges. The more ACEs one experienced increases the risk for negative health and wellbeing impacts. Research has categorized these adverse experiences into three main categories neglect, abuse, and family dysfunction. Protective

childhood experiences help to mitigate these negative impacts. Oppositional behaviours by toddlers, such as saying “no”, are often labelled as “rude”. But they are exercising their newly discovered autonomy and independence. Children are not trying to annoy their adults but are simply thinking for themselves. The assertion of autonomy occurs at regular developmental intervals during the lifespan such as the onset of adolescence, early adulthood, or mid-life.

Contrary to some cultural beliefs, young children not only have short attention spans, but they also have short memories. Repetition facilitates the learning of rules and acceptable or appropriate behaviours.

Children learn self-regulation by experiencing co-regulation from their caregiving adults over time.

The ability to self-regulate is first learned in infancy from coregulation with the infant’s adults. When an infant is responded to quickly and empathetically when crying and in distress, they learn to trust the adults that care for them and over time can develop the ability to regulate themselves in times of novelty or distress. They have learned that those that care for them understand their experiences and can be trusted to support them when needed.

All parents can benefit from support and someone walking alongside of them when unsure or overwhelmed. ParentGuide exists to be that support.

ParentGuide supports parents, childcare providers, and other caregiving adults to develop healthy relationships with their little ones. Sometimes by being an understanding ear if the adult’s early influences are impacting their transition to parenthood. Or by offering developmental information and guidance regarding parenting strategies. By providing professional development training to childcare providers ParentGuide supports best practice strategies and curriculum for social-emotional, cognitive and literacy and language development. Through offering counselling, using play as a vehicle, parents and young children have an opportunity to talk about and process difficult experiences and memories.

Expert Advice from Gwendolyn E. Creary, ParentGuide LLC

“Infants make meaning from their interactions with their adults. They begin to understand who they are by how we respond to them from birth.”

TIPS EVERY HOMEOWNER SHOULD KNOW

The security of one’s home is a top priority for every homeowner. While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of burglary, theft or other security threats, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate these risks and keep your home and family safe. Carlton Crockwell, Chief Executive Officer at Security Associates brings us eight tips for home security that every homeowner should know.

#1 - Install a Security System

One of the most effective ways to improve home security is to install a security system. A good security system can deter intruders and alert you and the authorities if there is a breach. Modern security systems can include features such as motion sensors, video surveillance, and remote access, giving you peace of mind when you are away from home. Some systems can also be integrated with smart home technology, allowing you to control your security system from your phone or tablet.

#2 - Secure Your Doors and Windows

Most burglars enter homes through doors or windows, so it is important to make sure these entry points are secure. Install solid core doors with deadbolts and reinforce the frames. Consider adding security film to your windows to make them more difficult to break. If you have sliding doors or windows, install a metal bar or rod to prevent them from being opened from the outside. Don’t forget to secure basement and garage doors as well.

#3 - Keep Your Home Well-Lit

Darkness provides cover for burglars, so it is important to keep your home well-lit. Install exterior lighting around your home, including at all entry points. Consider using motion-activated lights, which can startle potential intruders and alert you to their presence. Make sure your interior lights are on timers if you are away from home, giving the impression that someone is there.

#4 - Maintain Your Landscaping

Overgrown shrubs, trees and other landscaping can provide hiding places for intruders. Keep your landscaping wellmaintained and trimmed. Consider planting thorny bushes or shrubs around the perimeter of your home, making it difficult for intruders to get close. If you have a large yard or property, consider installing motion-activated lights or even a security camera to monitor activity.

#5 - Be Mindful of Social Media

In the age of social media, it is easy to inadvertently provide information about your whereabouts to potential intruders. Avoid posting about your vacations or other extended absences from home. Consider disabling location tracking features on your social media accounts. You can also ask trusted neighbors to keep an eye on your home while you are away.

#6- Keep Valuables Out of Sight

While it may seem obvious, keeping valuables out of sight can go a long way in deterring burglars. Don’t leave valuable items such as electronics or jewelry in plain sight from windows or doors. Keep your blinds or curtains closed when you are not home, making it difficult for potential intruders to see inside. Consider using a safe to store important documents and valuable items.

#7 - Use Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology can be a powerful tool for home security. With devices like smart locks and doorbells, you can remotely control access to your home and monitor activity at your front door. Smart home security cameras can alert you to suspicious activity and allow you to check in on your home from anywhere. Many smart home security devices can be integrated with your security system for a comprehensive approach to home security.

#8 - Get to Know Your Neighbors

Your neighbors can be a valuable asset in keeping your home secure. Getting to know your neighbors and establishing a sense of community can create a network of eyes and ears watching out for each other’s homes. If you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time, let your trusted neighbors know so they can keep an eye on your home and report any suspicious activity. Additionally, if you see something suspicious happening at a neighbor’s home, don’t hesitate to report it to the authorities or to your neighbor.

Carlton Crockwell has over 41 years in the Security Industry. While Security Associates is focused on Business Physical Security, he is passionate about keeping everyone in Bermuda safe! By following these eight tips, you can take steps to mitigate security risks and keep your home and family safe. While there is no guarantee that your home will never be targeted, taking these precautions can make your home a less appealing target and increase your chances of avoiding a break-in.

Expert Advice from Carlton Crockwell, Chief Executive Officer at Security Associates

Security Associates was formed in April 2010 with a vision to provide innovative security solutions while promoting the highest level of integrity and reliability from our employees

We are the only ISO 9001:2015 accredited security company in Bermuda and the leading physical security specialist operation. From our support staff to our officers on the job, we work to ensure our clients receive the best and most effective security services possible.